Key Facts
Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district has witnessed over 100 forest fire incidents this season, scorching approximately 850 hectares of forest land. The Conservator of Forests, West Circle Rajouri, Sat Pal (IFS), confirmed the figures on Sunday, June 14, 2026.
Details of the Forest Fire Crisis
Speaking to ANI, Sat Pal said the forest department has been continuously working to contain and control the fires, which have been fueled by the ongoing heatwave, dry weather conditions, and the presence of highly inflammable Chir pine forests in the region. He emphasized that the initial few minutes after a fire starts are the most critical for containment.
“Whenever a forest fire incident occurs, try to extinguish it immediately. The initial few minutes are the most critical. Since our staff and resources often take time to reach remote or hilly areas, I urge people, especially those travelling or moving about during the summer, to exercise caution. Please avoid discarding items like bidis or cigarettes,” Sat Pal said.
He appealed to residents to promptly alert authorities and assist in preventing the spread of flames. “If you encounter a fire, try to contain it right away and inform the department,” he added.
Technology Aiding Detection
The forest department is increasingly relying on technology for early detection. The Forest Survey of India (Dehradun) has registered contact details of staff, and as soon as a fire occurs in their area, location coordinates and a fire alert are immediately received. However, reaching affected sites remains a major challenge due to difficult terrain and lack of road connectivity in several locations.
“The real challenge lies in reaching the site and bringing the fire under control, particularly because some remote areas lack road accessibility,” Sat Pal noted.
Vulnerability of Rajouri's Forests
Rajouri comprises two forest divisions spread across a vast, hilly landscape dominated by Chir pine forests, which are highly prone to catching fire. “Rajouri comprises two forest divisions and covers a vast, hilly terrain that is highly susceptible to forest fires. This is largely because the forests here consist primarily of Chir pine,” he explained.
While the department is making every effort to reduce the impact, some damage to wildlife habitats is unavoidable. “There is inevitably some harm to wildlife and bird nests in certain areas, we are striving to minimise such losses as much as possible. Weather conditions play a significant role in this,” Sat Pal said.
What Readers Should Know
- Over 100 forest fire incidents have been reported in Rajouri district this season.
- Approximately 850 hectares of forest land have been affected.
- The fires are exacerbated by heatwave, dry weather, and Chir pine forests.
- The forest department urges public cooperation to immediately report and help extinguish fires.
- Technology from the Forest Survey of India is being used for early detection.
FAQ
How many forest fire incidents have occurred in Rajouri this season?
Over 100 forest fire incidents have been reported in Rajouri district, affecting around 850 hectares of forest land.
What is the main cause of forest fires in Rajouri?
The ongoing heatwave, dry weather, and the presence of highly inflammable Chir pine forests are the primary causes.
What steps is the forest department taking to control fires?
The department is using technology from the Forest Survey of India for early detection and alerts, and urging public cooperation to extinguish fires immediately.
How can the public help in preventing forest fires?
People should avoid discarding items like bidis or cigarettes, and immediately inform the forest department if they spot a fire.
Source: www.hindustantimes.com